In the 2024 Paris Olympics Men’s Football semifinals, Africa’s hopes were dashed as both Morocco and Egypt fell despite strong performances.
Egypt’s Pharaohs initially took the lead with a goal from Pyramids FC’s central midfielder in the 62nd minute. However, Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Matata equalized in the 83rd minute. Matata then scored his second goal in the 99th minute of extra time, assisted by Kilian Sildillia.
Egypt’s chances were further hampered by a red card to Omar Fayed in the 92nd minute, leading to France’s Michael Olise scoring in the 108th minute with help from Desire Doue, securing France’s victory.
In Marseille, Morocco’s Soufiane Rahim scored his sixth goal of the tournament in the 37th minute. Spain’s Fermin Lopez equalized in the 66th minute and assisted Juanlo’s decisive goal in the 85th minute.
Morocco had a strong tournament, beating Iraq, losing narrowly to Ukraine, and edging Argentina before a commanding quarterfinal win against the USA. Spain, having lost to Egypt in the group stage but overcoming other opponents, advanced with a notable victory over Japan in the quarters.
Spain and Morocco had previously met in the 2012 Olympics with a goalless draw. This year, Morocco, in its eighth Olympic appearance, and Spain, in its sixth, both reached the semifinals. Spain previously won gold in 1992 and silver in 1920 and 2020.
In the final fixtures, Morocco will face Egypt for the bronze medal in Nantes on Thursday, while France will play Spain for the gold medal in Paris on Friday.